Hear Ye, Hear Ye

It is safe to say that I am one of the last-gals-standing when it comes to earbuds, meaning I do not own a pair of the wireless little wizards. There are many reasons for my hesitancy to join the 21st century. I am cheap. I am tech ignorant. I lose little objects. And, most likely, it is because I am a talker, not a listener. Not proud of that fact, but name it and claim it, I guess.

On my daily walks I see many folks with plugged up ears. Sometimes I can hear the muffled sound of music or voices as I pass them by. I feel it will break their trance if I greet them so I am learning to just give a quick wave or nod. I understand the reason for wiring up during a long walk. Favorite playlists can be motivational. A good audio book helps pass the time. A favorite podcast can certainly be educational as well as entertaining. For me, however, I want to sense the outdoors not only with my eyes but also with my ears.

Safety is one factor. I know that when I hear the tick-ticking of a bicycle behind me I need to beware. Often, it is an elementary-aged kid who is determined to get to point B. It is best if I move aside so they can whiz by me. Sometimes, I hear the extra huff-huff of a jogger on my tail. It is also a good idea to give them a little space as they sprint toward goals I will never attain.

I also enjoy the sounds of nature. Fall leaves tap-dance their way across the sidewalk. The wind wrestles with tree tops. Crows caw and shriek as they make sure all is well in the hood. Our local Cooper's Hawk yek-yek-yeks as he dances around looking for prey. The chickadees fill in the spaces with their antiphonal responses.

There are also the mundane sounds of urban walking. The crunch of loose gravel on the pavement. The shik-shik-shik of sprinkler systems reminding me to swerve or risk a bath. The blaring honks of a car in need of being silenced from panic mode. The wail of sirens moving quickly to the aid of others. The back-firing of a motorcycle popping its way down the street. The opening and closing clacks of garage doors as folks take care of daily life. The buzzing of lawn mowers giving the grass a good haircut.

Perhaps my favorite sounds come from the park. Little soccer players swhoosh around on the grass as they learn to manipulate a ball in the correct direction. Young baseball players smile to the sound of a ball pinging off a bat. Little ones giggle and chatter while they swing and slide on the playground equipment.

Time will tell if I join the world of little white things sticking out of my ear. Until then, I am content to be present with my surroundings. I will continue to listen to the stories the birds share with me. And, I will soak up the neighborhood hubbub, entertaining and educational at the same time.